Within the framework of the approval process based on dangerous goods regulations
and nuclear legislation, it is necessary to perform experimental type tests
for containers to be used for the transport, intermediate storage and final
storage of radioactive materials. These include drop tests, leak tightness
tests and fire tests for containers, as well as tests for special form radioactive
materials.
Particularly, the mechanical tests include the test sequence involving a
drop from 9 metres onto an unyielding foundation and a drop from 1 metre
on a rigid steel bar, respectively in that particular position in which
the most serios damage of the package occurs. Due to the different container
components or component areas, it is necessary to examine a number of different
drop test positions for each test specimen.
Elaborate testing and measuring facilities are available at BAM for conduction
corresponding test activities. Regular work performed in the
BAM drop test facility includes the following
- 9 metre drop onto an unyielding foundation (picture on the left)
- 1 metre drop on a steel bar (puncture test, upper middle picture)
- 9 metre drop of a steel plate onto the test object (crush test, lower
middle picture)
- 5 metre drop onto the permanent storage foundation (picture on the right)
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Comprehensive experience in testing and research provide a substantial
knowledge base for the up to 60 minute fire test that BAM performs with
containers and container components on BAM Test Site Technical Safety, which
operates two
fire test stands.
Experimental testing work includes closure lid system examinations as well
as helium leak-tightness tests, in which leak sensor equipment of the highest
sensitivity is used.
BAM performs detailed analyses and assessments of mechanical and thermal
stress behaviour within the scope of experimental container studies. Furthermore,
BAM continually develops corresponding test
methods and measurement technology. In performing their research and
testing work, BAM researchers focus not only on experimental type tests,
but also on analytical and numerical examinations geared to simulate mechanical
and thermal accident effects, as well as studies dealing with the tight
enclosure of dangerous substances. Simulations are performed using finite
element software. The programs used include, for example, ABAQUS, ANSYS,
DYNA3D, TASEF, TOPAZ3D, HEATING6.
